The image above shows a person sitting cross-legged on the edge of a high cliff in a desert-like area. The person is wearing light-colored pants and a white top. The landscape around them is dry with sandy ground and a few low shrubs scattered about. Overlaying the image is a text that reads: "Especially when you have a lot going on, you must find a way to ground and focus on YOURSELF - Mandy Ingber."
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How is your digital wellness being affected by technostress?
In our personal and professional lives, we often feel pressured to be constantly connected, which can subtly contribute to rising stress levels and negatively impact our emotional and digital well-being. This phenomenon is known as technostress—the strain and anxiety from overuse or dependency on technology.
Here are some practical tips to help you reclaim your digital wellness:
Control the Scroll
Endless scrolling on social media or news feeds can increase feelings of stress and amplify FOMO (fear of missing out). Reducing screen time, setting boundaries, or unfollowing accounts that make you feel anxious can improve your emotional well-being.
Resist Instant Replies
Not every notification needs your immediate attention! If you're feeling overwhelmed by constant pings, it’s okay to pause. Turn off notifications and permit yourself to respond when you’re in the right frame of mind. Breaks from notifications can help reduce technostress by allowing space for mental clarity.
Unplug and Recharge
Trade excessive screen time for activities that rejuvenate your mind and body. Engage in hobbies, physical activities, or quality time with loved ones. The more time you spend in the present, the better your emotional and digital wellness will be.
Ergonomics Matter
Technostress isn’t just mental—it can take a physical toll too! Ensure your work environment is set up for comfort with proper seating, lighting, and screen height. This will help reduce physical strain and boost your overall wellness.
Take Advantage of Digital Wellness Tools
Platforms like Google and Meta offer tools to help you manage your screen time and stay mindful of your digital consumption. Make use of these resources to develop healthier habits and reduce technostress.
Resources
Google - Digital Wellbeing tools: (https://wellbeing.google/
Meta - Digital Wellness tools: https://about.meta.com/actions/safety/topics/wellbeing/digitalwellness/
Social Media’s impact on our mental health and tips to use it safely: Social media’s impact on our mental health and tips to use it safely (ucdavis.edu)
How to Unplug From Distractions and Plug into Your Own Vital Energy: How To Unplug From Distractions And Plug Into Your Own Vital Energy (forbes.com)
Technostress: 3 Signs You Struggle With ‘Technostress,’ According To Research (forbes.com)
By making small changes to your tech habits, you can overcome technostress and improve both your emotional and digital well-being!
Why not try it this weekend?
EAP is here to help!
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